The deal comes a day after the Mets formally announced the signing of outfielder Curtis Granderson to a four-year, $60 million contract. Although often dinged for their payroll constraints, the Mets already have committed $87.25 million to free-agent contracts this offseason.

"Excellent signing by Mets," one National League scout told ESPNNewYork.com after learning of the Colon deal. "The Mets have had a productive 72 hours."

Either way, it would buy time until the Mets promote top prospect Noah Syndergaard midway through the season. Meanwhile, with their outfield now bolstered with the additions of Granderson and Chris Young, and with the impending Colon signing lessening the sting of losing Harvey for 2014, the Mets now can focus on trying to trade from their surplus at first base.